After Storms, Experts Warn Buyers to Check Homes for Water Damage Risks

Following recent severe weather, experts are urging potential homeowners to thoroughly inspect properties for water damage risks before purchasing. Insurers highlight that the extent of damage is not solely determined by storm intensity but also by the condition of surrounding trees, property infrastructure, and the building's preparedness for high winds and heavy rainfall.

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Although the 2026 data covers the period only until August 5, it already shows a more pronounced activity of storm, downpour, hail, and lightning-induced damages than during the entire last summer. This summer, about 18% more such incidents have been recorded than last year, and comparing the same period until August 5, the increase is about 44%.

Data from Balcia Insurance indicates a notable rise in storm-related damages this summer. While the figures for 2026 only cover up to August 5th, they already show a more active period for damages caused by storms, downpours, hail, and lightning compared to the entirety of last summer. Specifically, there has been an 18% increase in such incidents this summer, with a 44% rise when comparing the same period up to August 5th.

However, this increase was not uniform throughout the summer. June and July saw an approximate 11% decrease in storm and downpour damages compared to the same months in 2025. The situation dramatically shifted in early August, with an intense episode of storms and heavy rains over just a few days significantly inflating the overall damage statistics.

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When assessing the risk of flooding, it is important to evaluate not only the building but also the surroundings. Precipitation water can flow from higher areas or streets, so even a technically sound property can suffer due to insufficient infrastructure capacity.

Analysis of the 2026 summer damages reveals a growing trend of infrastructure damage alongside traditional storm consequences. The number of flooded basements, underground parking areas, and garages has doubled compared to last year. Damage to landscaping, paving, and rain and sewage systems has more than doubled, while incidents related to soil and water infiltration have nearly tripled. Experts emphasize that evaluating flood risk requires considering the surrounding environment, as water can flow from higher elevations, potentially affecting even technically sound properties due to inadequate infrastructure capacity.

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Underground parking lots are one of the most vulnerable parts of a building. Their construction creates a so-called "bowl effect," so even a relatively small amount of surface water can quickly accumulate and cause significant damage. For this reason, it is important to assess not only the age or construction quality of the building but also the height of the lowest point of the premises, the geometry of the entrance, and the condition of the rainwater collection systems.